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Introduction to car stereo

Robert Ferency-Viars is the managing editor for the Crutchfield car A/V learning content, and has been with the company since 1999. A Virginia native from the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, he loves spending time with his wonderful wife and sons, listening to music, writing, and playing games with friends. Robert's love for car audio began at 16 when he installed his first car stereo.

A car stereo is the centerpiece of any car audio system. Also known as a radio, receiver, or head unit, today's car stereo performs a variety of complex functions so that we can better enjoy our drive time. To understand these functions, it's helpful to think of a car stereo as having three different sections:

Modern stereos are full of useful features and look great in your dash

Source — This is the part that let's us choose what we want to hear. Sources may include a standard AM/FM tuner, CD or DVD player, satellite radio, iPod® or smartphone, or a USB input.

Preamp — This is where all sound adjustments are made. The preamp section includes controls ranging from simple volume, balance, fader, source selection, and tone adjustments to sophisticated crossovers, equalizers, and time correction.

Amplifier — The amplifier section boosts the small (low-voltage) audio signal coming from the preamp section into a larger (high-voltage) audio signal that's sent out to the speakers.

Why would I want or need a new car stereo?

A new stereo will give you better sound and more playback options than the typical factory stereo.

Better sound quality — Superior built-in power and better circuit design mean that an aftermarket car stereo isn't just louder than the typical factory stereo, it also produces cleaner, richer, more detailed sound. Enhanced tone controls in the preamp section mean that you can do a better job fine-tuning the music.

New sources — One of most common reasons to get a new stereo is to expand your system's music playback and other capabilities. Aftermarket stereos offer advanced capabilities, such as:

MP3/WMA/AAC playback

iPod® and iPhone® support

Support for Android™ phones

Satellite radio

HD Radio™ reception

DVD playback

Bluetooth® connectivity

GPS navigation

Support for Pandora® Internet radio and other app-related sources

We're also seeing increased integration of smartphone apps with both iPhones® and Android smartphones.

Security — Features like detachable face plates and security codes help protect your investment from theft.

What kind of car stereo is right for you?

It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number and variety of models in our car stereo listing. How do you know which one is right for you? Our expert shopping guides can help. Click on the links to learn more.

Comments

Taryn Haynes from Mount Vernon, NY

I'd like to be referred to a place that will install the Jensen VX3022 radio system into my 2013 Nissan
Rogue in Westchester County in NY. Could you help me with this? I ordered the system with you guys. My order number is 41651956.

Posted on 5/29/2015 5:35:58 PM

Alexander Hrabe from Crutchfield

Taryn, when it comes to professional installation, we recommend using InstallCard, which gives you access to a nationwide network of installers. In your case, an In-dash Video InstallCard will give you credit toward a certified installation in your area. If you have any questions, give us a call at 1.888.955.6000.

Free tech support for the lifetime of your product

I had to call for support on the evening of installation. Your tech helped me get going in minutes. It was good to be able to call at that hour, and nice to talk to someone who knew the problem immediately.

David, Customer

We want you to enjoy the items you purchase from Crutchfield

If you're not satisfied with your purchase, you may return items that are complete and like new for any reason within 60 days